Module 1.3: History and Laws part 1
What is an American with disabilities act?
➢Signed into law on july 26, 1990 by President Bush
➢Extended civil rights and anti-discrimination protection to people with disabilities
➢ADA was amended in 2008, known as ADA Amendments act of 2008 (ADAAA)
➢Purpose?
○ To bring equality to all individuals, regardless of ability
■ Employment opportunities
■ Public services
■ Public accommodations
■ Transportation
■ Telecommunications
➢Covers individuals after the age of 22
How does the ADA define a disability?
➢A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities
of an individual
What are major life activities?
➢Performing manual tasks
➢Major bodily functions (including normal cell growth, neurological, brain, respiratory,
circulatory, endocrine, reproductive, bowel, bladder, digestive, etc.)
➢Sleeping
➢Working
➢Talking
➢Standing, lifting, bending
➢Breathing
What were ADA lawsuits?
➢Early lawsuits concerning ADA compliance were about physical access to public areas and
buildings
➢The major of lawsuits today are concerned about the interpretation of ADA as it applies to
employment and accommodations for people with disabilities
What Are some terminology?
➢ADA requires requested accommodations:
○ Be reasonable
○ Do not impose “undue hardship”
■ Undue hardship is usually a financial burden
➢For employment issues under the ADA, a person with a disability must be qualified for the job
What is the difference between equality vs. equity?
➢Equality
○ All individuals are given the same things
